FOLMC is thrilled to announce this year's award winners for outstanding contributions to the library system.

B. Parker Hamilton Award

Eric Carzon

The Hamilton Award, previously the Library Professional of Year Award, recognizes the excellent work carried out in MCPL on a daily basis. The award highlights the best practices and especially outstanding work.

Awarded in honor of former MCPL Director Parker Hamilton.

This year's recipient, Eric Carzon, has worked across many aspects of MCPL, from his start in the Business Office to his move to Twinbrook Library while earning a Master of Library and Information Science. As Branch Manager, Mr. Carzon created the Library of Things: Music, produced the Make Music Montgomery Competition, worked diligently on the Just for the Record - A Vinyl Day committee, and has proven himself an exemplary leader to his peers.

Charles W. Gilchrist Award

Carol W. Leahy

The Gilchrist Award is presented to an individual, family, family foundation, corporation, or civic group that has demonstrated exceptional service to MCPL through volunteer and/or philanthropic support.

Awarded in memory of former Montgomery County Executive

Charles W. Gilchrist.

Carol W. Leahy, this year's recipient, has a long history of fundraising, advocacy, volunteer support, and service to MCPL and FOLMC. Her work has spanned from hands-on activities to board leadership including serving as Acting Board President. Mrs. Leahy also has been a loyal member, generous donor, and sponsor of FOLMC's programs and events. Her contributions extend to numerous arts and humanities organizations in Montgomery County which further demonstrates Mrs. Leahy's active commitment to her community.

New This Year

Cokie and Steve Roberts Award

Dedicated in memory of Cokie Roberts

Newly created in 2020, this award honors achievement in literary excellence and is dedicated to the late Cokie Roberts.

Cokie Roberts was an award winning broadcast journalist and bestselling author. She was a preeminent political reporter and commentator who was universally respected. Her husband, Steve is also a renowned journalist, author, and professor of communications.

Over the past 20 years, the long-time Montgomery County residents participated actively in FOLMC in support of MCPL. They spoke at library events, including our Literary Luncheon series, and gave generously of their time and resources. Recently, Mr. Roberts moderated a panel on Immigration in America for the county-wide NEA Big Read program with FOLMC, helping residents better understand the immigrant experience.

Their love of reading and writing led them to a long-time affiliation with libraries, making them natural advocates of access to free information. In fact, Mrs. Roberts was honored by the Library of Congress in 2008 as aLiving Legend.

Join us as we honor their contributions and legacy,

at the 6th Annual Library After Dark Gala, the premier library event of the year. While we will not be able to celebrate in person, join us online as we support and honor those who help make MCPL a world-class library system.